George Torr

A South Yorkshire Police officer who was jailed after he ‘blackmailed’ a 15-year-old girl to send him a naked photo of herself, has been sacked by the force.

Daniel Cookson, aged 30, was sentenced to 18 months in prison after he was found guilty of causing the girl to engage in sexual activity following a week-long trial at Sheffield Crown Court in November.

Following a special case hearing which involved the Chief Constable, David Crompton, Cookson was today sacked from the force.

Police have said that Cookson was not present during the hearing.

Cookson, of Dickens Road, Worksop, was suspended from his position when he was arrested and charged in August 2014.

A court heard how Cookson used to police issued Blackberry to strike up a relationship with the 15-year-old schoolgirl.

After exchanging texts, 15-year-old said she ‘didn’t want to take things further’.

Cookson then said the only way it would stop would be if she sent a naked picture of herself to him.

Stephen Wood, Prosecuting said this resorted to blackmail.

Detective Superintendent Terry Mann, head of the force’s Professional Standards Department, said: “Members of the public quite rightly expect higher standards and behaviour from our officers and staff and anyone who is found to have fallen short of those standards and be suspected of committing a crime will be thoroughly and professionally investigated.

“The force expects its staff to act with integrity and professionalism to ensure people receive a high quality service and have a police service they can be proud of.

“Following his conviction, it was clear that Cookson could never serve as a police officer again.

I would like to reassure the public that once the force was aware of the allegations, we acted swiftly and professionally to bring him to justice and have dismissed Cookson as soon as legislation and associated guidance would allow.”